LOGAN SQUARE — Logan Square’s 53rd “Community Congress” will convene Saturday, encouraging residents to represent their block, corner and home alongside influential local politicians.
The annual event hosted by the Logan Square Neighborhood Association is aimed at discussing issues affecting the neighborhood at large, this year with a particular focus on the impact of The 606 parks and trail project on nearby housing and the effects state-wide budget cuts are having on the Logan Square community.
Cook County Assessor Joe Berrios and recently elected Cook County Commissioner Luis Arroyo, Jr. will be on hand to lead a discussion on how to stabilize the neighborhood around the Bloomingdale Trail as the 2.7 mile high-rise park moves closer to opening day.
Concerns over how longtime residents around the park will be affected in regard to rising property values and an already visible influx of new high-end condos and developments is growing, according to one LSNA member.
Last year, the Congress tackled ways to preserve Ames Middle School and Kelvyn Park High School in the midst of upheaval at both locations.
In accordance with its community mission, the group will attempt to “confront major upheavals affecting the neighborhood, including rapid gentrification and a crisis in state funding for neighborhood needs” during Saturday’s Community Congress session.
“On the Congress agenda is a discussion of state funding for education, social services and immigrant services, all of which are at risk,” the announcement for the weekend gathering reads.
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle will deliver the event’s keynote speech and swear in the association’s new board. State legislators who represent Logan Square have also been invited.
The 53rd Congress will take place at 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, May 16 at Armitage Baptist Church, 2451 N. Kedzie Ave.
For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here:
